Viking Hiking
Esja Hike
The Esja mountain is close to Reykjavík and you will likely see a lot of locals hiking (or running) up the slopes. From the viewpoint near the top, you can have great view over the capital area.
Depending on the region, you can see all the way to the airport, a distance of over 50 kilometers!
There is a small tourist office close the carpark, but most of the action can be found in Reykjavík anyway.
Hiking up Esja, a mountain range near Reykjavik in Iceland, is a popular and rewarding activity that offers stunning views and a challenging workout. The trail to the top of Esja begins at the parking area near the base of the mountain and follows a well-marked path through a variety of landscapes, including meadows and rocky slopes. The hike can be steep and strenuous at times, but there are several resting points along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the views. As you continue up the mountain, you'll pass by a series of waterfalls and streams, and you may even spot some wildlife, such as birds and sheep. The final ascent to the top of the mountain can be steep and rocky, but the view from the summit is well worth the effort. When hiking up Esja, it is important to come prepared with the right gear and supplies, including proper clothing, water, and snacks.
hike
type
2-3 hours
duration
6 km
distance
3/5
difficulty
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temperature
Conditions
Weather today
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Forecast
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Road conditions
Easily passable
Details
duration
2-3 hours
distance
6 km
difficulty
3/5 - Easy to find and to navigate, but steep ascent on gravelly paths.
tourist density
moderate
Nearby
Food & Drink
Esjustofa, the info center at the parking lot
Food & Drink
KFC, Háholt 14, 270 Mosfellsbær, Island
Toilets
Esjustofa, the info center at the parking lot
Supermarkets
Bónus, Þverholt 2, 270 Mosfellsbær, Iceland
Supermarkets
Krónan, Háholt 13-15, 270 Mosfellsbær, Iceland
Location
(Nearest) address
Esjurætur - Hiking Center, Mógilsá, Iceland
Accessiblity
The hike is located directly at the Ring Road 1.
GPS Coordinates
64.230306, -21.718028
Distance to Reykjavík
Reykjavík is 22 km away. It takes about 20 minutes (or 0.3 hours) to drive by car.
Distance to nearest town
Reykjavík is the nearest city at 22 km distance. It takes about 20 minutes (or 0.3 hours) to drive by car.
Parking
Summary
There is a dedicated parking spot right next to the road. Coming from Route 1, take the detour labelled "Esjustofa". The trails start right at the parking lot.
Way to start of hike
short gravel path
GPS Coordinates
64.208971, -21.715831
Google Maps Plus Code
675P+FR Mógilsá, Iceland
Capacity
around 50
Security
none
Alternative
none
Costs
free
Tips for visiting
Recommended Car Type
normal car, no 4x4-drive needed
Don't miss
On clear days, you can see all the way over the city and the whole Reykjanes peninsula - including the airport!
Recommended Equipment
Hiking or sports shoes recommended.
Photo Opportunities
To the south over the city and the peninsula. Also, look to the east so see Þingvallavatn area.
Do's and don't
Stay on the paths, take enough to drink and eat, don't leave trash behind.
Things to watch out for
The gravel paths can be slippery. Not accessible in the winter.